Hello, My name is Mary Irelan and I am a student at the University of Illinois. I am currently a sophomore and I am majoring in Ag Communications. I would like to start off by thanking my sponsor, Monsanto, and specifically Tami Craig Schilling and Mica DeLong for allowing me to take part in this amazing experience. I would also like to thank Chuck Zimmerman for giving Margy and I the opportunity to blog for this website. I am extremely excited to participate in the Monsanto Future Ag Journalist Fellowship and I know I will learn a lot.
A little background on me: I am from a grain farm outside of Sparland, Illinois which is just north of Peoria. I live with my parents Dave and Jean and my sisters Elizabeth and Christine. I was extremely active in 4-H and FFA and even live at 4-H House at U of I.
I am currently packing my suitcase and getting more excited and, I must admit, nervous by the second. I have never been west of Nebraska so the prospect of visiting California is exciting in itself. This will be my first time attending Commodity Classic and I can’t wait to take it all in. I’m looking forward to meeting lots of people and learning about new technology about to be brought out into agriculture. The Lorrie Morgan Concert is going to be a plus as well. I’m eager to hear the major announcement Monsanto is making to the public and also one being made by FFA.
There is going to be lots to do and lots to see. I hope you continue to log on to read about Margy and I as we experience the 2006 Commodity Classic in Anaheim, California.